WHAT NEXT ?

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 16 September 1915, Page 2

WHAT NEXT ?

A HORRIBLE piece of bungling and bad management in the inadequate supply of boats and rafts for our troopships is brought to public notice by letters sent to the daily newspapers from men who know what they are talking about, showing a most disgraceful and criminal state of affairs.

We marvel almost at what excuse Mr Massey has to make to the charge. In the case of the Sixth Reinforcements, one transport appears to have had boat-accom-modation for only one-third of the ship's company, nor does this scanty provision seem to be supplemented by adequate rafting; the men are said to have drawn lots for places in the boats should the unforeseen happen, the intention being that those who drew the death-ballots should go down as did the men of the Birkenhead. One Aucklander writes under date August 20, six weeks after the transport left Wellington : — " In the evening lots were drawn for places in the boats'should accident occur. Strange it is that this boat carries 1400 men to the front, and yet has accommodation for 500 only in case of accident. Boat drill will be practised by those fortunate to draw a seat, the rest of us meanwhile standing fore and aft whilst the latter row away. (Surely this matter is not right and needs attention)."

Another Aucklander writes : — " Though I am sorry to have to say so, there are only enough boats on the vessel to accommodate one-third of the ship's company. I think it is a crying shame that two-thirds of the men in the ship must inevitably perish were we to be torpedoed, strike a derelict, or founder in a heavysea. I can just imagine our ship sinking here in mid-ocean, at least 300 miles from land! We should not have the slightest chance under such circumstances It seems almost incredible after the disasters of recent years that the military authorities should allow a vessel conveying troops to set out without adequate provision being made for their safety, while at sea. A man does not mind risking his life on the battlefield, but he does not cherish the thought of dying like a rat without the remotest chance of being rescued."